Closer to home: Asian destinations for your higher education
Amid rising costs and visa hurdles, students are opting for countries that may not be featured on posters but have quietly emerged as some of the most promising study destinations in Asia
Like many others, Asif initially dreamed of studying in Europe or countries like the UK, US, or Canada. But when he sat down to plan his higher studies, the numbers made him hesitate. A one-year master's programme in the UK would cost nearly Tk30 lakh, not including daily expenses.
That's when he started exploring options closer to home, turning his attention to Asian countries. Eventually, he discovered a similar programme in South Korea, fully funded, with tuition, accommodation, airfare, and even a monthly stipend covered. Unlike in the UK, US, or other European countries, where scholarships are highly competitive and often limited, South Korea offered a far more accessible opportunity.
"I didn't want to follow the crowd. I wanted to study in a place that made sense for my career as well as my budget," he said. "Looking back, I'm so glad I made that choice."
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As the cost of studying abroad continues to rise, and visa hurdles grow tougher in traditional destinations, many students across South Asia are beginning to think differently. They are choosing countries that are not necessarily on the posters of education fairs, but have quietly become some of the most promising academic destinations in Asia.
South Korea
With the global rise of K-pop, K-dramas, and Korean skincare, South Korea has quickly become one of the most culturally influential countries in the world. But beyond pop culture, its education system is as impressive.
Through large-scale initiatives like the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS), the government offers full funding for undergraduate, master's, and PhD programmes, covering tuition, airfare and living expenses. Universities such as KAIST, Seoul National University, and Woosong are internationally recognised, particularly in fields like engineering, business, and media studies.
"I didn't want to follow the crowd. I wanted to study in a place that made sense for my career as well as my budget. Looking back, I'm so glad I made that choice."
While many of these programmes are taught in English, learning Korean is still highly recommended — in some cases — required. At several universities, certain majors make Korean language a mandatory minor in order to graduate. Even though it's not compulsory, knowing the language helps students adapt to daily life and enhances job prospects.
After graduation, students can apply for a D-10 visa, which allows them to stay and search for jobs. Notably, cities like Busan, Daejeon, and Gwangju offer the same academic quality as Seoul but at a lower cost of living.
Thailand
Thailand is fast becoming one of Asia's most practical and affordable study destinations, particularly for students pursuing medicine.
Universities like Chulalongkorn, Mahidol, and Chiang Mai offer internationally recognised MBBS programmes, taught in English, with strong clinical training and research opportunities. Degrees are accredited by global organisations like WHO and ECFMG, making it easier for graduates to take licensing exams in various countries.
Sadia Khan, currently enrolled in the MBBS programme at Chulalongkorn University, shared that Thailand offers several scholarship opportunities, both merit and need based. These scholarships not only cover tuition fees but a few also provide for accommodation, health insurance, and monthly living expenses.
According to her, annual tuition typically falls between $5,000 to $10,000, while monthly costs for food, rent, and transport can comfortably stay under $500, a fraction of what it would cost in Western countries.
Though medicine is Thailand's strongest academic field, universities also offer respected programmes in public health, hospitality, development studies, engineering, and business, with many courses available in English. Application processes are online and require academic records, English proficiency test scores, and recommendation letters. Some universities may also ask for interviews or entrance tests.
Bangkok and Chiang Mai are the top choices for international students, thanks to their academic infrastructure, safety, and affordable lifestyle. While job opportunities are limited due to visa restrictions, students in health, tourism, and development often find internships or short-term roles during or after their programmes.
Taiwan
Taiwan may not always top global study rankings, but for undergraduates seeking quality education, it's quietly becoming a standout in Asia. Taiwanese universities excel in engineering, computer science, environmental science, public health, and business.
Institutions like National Taiwan University (NTU), National Tsing Hua University, National Cheng Kung University (NCKU), and National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University consistently ranked high for research and academic quality.
NTU, often called the 'Harvard of Taiwan', has global partnerships. Its STEM undergraduate programmes attract students thanks to Taiwan's thriving tech and manufacturing industries, offering well-equipped labs, internships, and professors active in regional and global research. Many universities now offer full undergraduate courses in English, especially in science and engineering.
Tuition ranges from $3,000 to $5,000 per year, with monthly living costs between $300 and $600, depending on the city. Scholarships like the Taiwan Scholarship cover tuition and offer generous stipends, enabling students to complete degrees fully funded.
Imran Ahmed, a Bangladeshi studying Computer Science and AI at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, adds a lesser-known benefit: free Mandarin classes. "Though my programme is in English, these classes help me daily and give me an edge for internships," he said.
He also noted the ease of adjusting to life in Taiwan through efficient public transport, and university support through orientation, career counselling, and cultural events. Cities like Taipei, Hsinchu, and Tainan offer a student-friendly blend of modern life, rich culture, and accessibility.
Singapore
With its globally ranked universities, English-medium instruction, and multicultural setting, Singapore has become a top choice for students across the world, especially from South Asia. While often praised for science and technology, the country also stands out as a strong destination for those pursuing English, humanities, and social sciences.
Institutions like the National University of Singapore (NUS) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU) consistently rank among the world's top 30 universities.
These schools offer robust undergraduate programmes in English literature, cultural studies, sociology, philosophy, media studies, and global affairs, often designed with interdisciplinary flexibility. Singapore Management University (SMU) also offers a globally focused approach to liberal arts and the social sciences.
One of the biggest advantages is Singapore's English-first education system. Courses are taught entirely in English, and the language is widely spoken in daily life, making both academic and cultural transitions easier.
This ease extends to the application process as well. Anika Rahman, a Bangladeshi student studying English Literature at NUS, shared that she was drawn by the country's global reputation and by how clearly structured the admission process was. She submitted her academic records, English test scores, and personal statement through one online portal, with every step clearly explained.
That said, Singapore is comparatively more expensive than other Asian study destinations like Thailand or Taiwan. Tuition fees for humanities and social sciences range from $12,500 to $18,000 per year, while monthly living expenses typically fall between $600 and $900, depending on lifestyle and housing.
However, to help with costs, Singapore offers several competitive scholarships, including the ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship and the SINGA programme for graduate students. These awards often cover full tuition and include a monthly stipend, making a world-class education more accessible for deserving international students.
